2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Japan

Overview of the mpox outbreak in Japan during 2022–2023

2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Japan

The 2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Japan was part of the global 2022–2023 mpox outbreak, which saw a significant increase in cases of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) outside of its traditional endemic regions in Central and West Africa. The outbreak in Japan began in 2022 and continued into 2023, with public health measures implemented to control the spread of the virus.

Map of mpox cases in Japan as of August 8, 2022

Background

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease is similar to smallpox, though generally less severe. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The virus is transmitted to humans through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with material contaminated with the virus.

Outbreak timeline

The first case of mpox in Japan during the 2022–2023 outbreak was reported in July 2022. The patient was a man in his 30s who had recently traveled to Europe, where he likely contracted the virus. Following this initial case, additional cases were identified, primarily among men who have sex with men (MSM), a group that was disproportionately affected during the global outbreak.

2022

In the latter half of 2022, Japan reported several cases of mpox, with the majority being imported cases linked to international travel. The Japanese government and health authorities increased surveillance and contact tracing efforts to prevent further spread.

2023

By early 2023, the number of new cases began to decline, attributed to effective public health interventions and increased awareness among the population. Vaccination campaigns targeting high-risk groups were also initiated to curb the outbreak.

Public health response

The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) coordinated the national response to the mpox outbreak. Measures included:

• Surveillance and contact tracing: Enhanced monitoring of suspected cases and their contacts to quickly identify and isolate new infections.
• Vaccination: Deployment of the smallpox vaccine, which is effective against mpox, to high-risk populations.
• Public awareness campaigns: Dissemination of information about mpox symptoms, transmission, and prevention methods to the general public and healthcare providers.

Impact

The mpox outbreak in Japan had a limited impact compared to other countries, largely due to the swift response by health authorities and the relatively low number of cases. However, it highlighted the need for continued vigilance and preparedness for emerging infectious diseases.

Related pages

• 2022–2023 mpox outbreak
• Mpox
• Monkeypox virus
• Public health in Japan